What is this medication for?

Sodium sulfate - potassium sulfate - magnesium sulfate belongs to the class of medications called osmotic laxatives. It is used for cleansing of the colon in preparation for a medical procedure called a colonoscopy in adults.

This medication works by causing water to accumulate in the intestines. This helps to soften the stool and produce a bowel movement more quickly. It also causes you to have diarrhea. Cleaning your colon helps your health care provider see the inside of your colon more clearly during your colonoscopy.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.

What form(s) does this medication come in?

Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.

How should I use this medication?

This medication is to be taken over a period of 2 days. Each bottle of this medication must be mixed with water (diluted) before drinking. Do not drink undiluted medication as this will increase your risk of nausea, vomiting, and fluid loss (dehydration).

On the day before your colonoscopy, eating a light breakfast or drinking clear liquids is recommended. Avoid drinking red and purple liquids, milk, and alcoholic beverages. Early in the evening on the day before your colonoscopy, pour the contents of one bottle of SUPREP® Bowel Prep Kit into the mixing container provided. Fill the container with water to the 16 oz. fill line, and drink the entire amount. Drink 2 additional containers filled to the 16 oz. line with water over the next hour.

The morning of your medical test, pour the contents of the second bottle of SUPREP® Bowel Prep Kit into the mixing container provided. Fill the container with water to the 16 oz. fill line and drink the entire amount. Drink 2 additional containers filled to the 16 oz. line with water over the next hour. Complete drinking all medication and required water at least one hour before the medical test. Have only clear liquids until after your medical test. Avoid drinking red and purple liquids, milk, and alcoholic beverages.

Do not take other medications 1 hour before or 1 hour after taking this medication. Any medication taken within this timeframe may have been flushed from the body and not absorbed properly. This medication may reduce the effectiveness of other medications.

Do not take other laxatives (e.g., bisacodyl) and avoid eating solid foods while taking SUPREP® Bowel Prep Kit.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor as soon as possible. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children.

Who should NOT take this medication?

Sodium sulfate - potassium sulfate - magnesium sulfate should not be taken by anyone who:

is allergic to sodium sulfate, potassium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, or to any of the ingredients of the medication

is severely dehydrated

has intestinal blockage, an opening in the wall of your stomach or intestine, or a very dilated intestine

The contents of this health site are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition.